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Joleon Lescott determined to win his place back at Manchester City

Joleon Lescott believes patience is the key to regaining his starting place in the Manchester City line-up.

Last Updated: 30/11/12 2:13pm

Joleon Lescott: Biding his time in bid for recall

The England defender has been unable to displace teenager Matija Nastasic over the last four games after recovering from a back injury.

The 19-year-old Nastasic has earned eight successive starts under Roberto Mancini, but Lescott has vowed to continue training hard as he awaits his chance to win his place back.

"I've been fit for a couple of weeks now and while it was disappointing to be left out of the squads at Chelsea and Wigan, the manager has to pick a team and bench that he thinks can do a job and I respect that," said Lescott.

"It is tough being out of the team and frustrating because it's natural to want to play every game, but if anyone comes in and does well, why would you change things?

"I'll just do my job, train hard and wait for my chance to get back in the team. In the meantime, I'll be rooting for the lads the same as if I was out on the pitch.

"When I next get my chance, it's up to me show the manager what I can do and make it hard for him to leave me out - that's the same for any player at this club because there is competition for places in every department."

The situation means the 30-year-old is unlikely to feature as his former club Everton visit the Etihad Stadium this weekend.

Lescott said: "I always look forward to playing Everton, but it's never less than a tough game for us as well so I've mixed feelings, I suppose.

"I'd like to think I had a good relationship with the supporters when I was at Goodison Park so it's a shame that didn't continue after I'd left, but it happens in football and it's understandable that they were upset when I left.

"I think the fact we've won the Premier League and FA Cup since I came to City has proved my decision to have been a good one and it's one I don't regret, but I enjoyed my time at Everton and have a lot of good memories of playing for the club."